Every pet owner dreams of their pet living as long as possible. For this reason, owners provide their dogs with an appropriately balanced diet and make regular visits to the veterinarian or other specialists who take care of the animal’s health. However, it is worth bearing in mind the fact that the lifespan of a pet depends on many different factors, which caregivers do not always have any influence on. Aspects such as genetic predispositions or congenital diseases, about which nothing is often known, are also important. However, when deciding to buy or adopt a pet, you can choose a breed that is characterized as long-lived. Then the chances that your beloved dog will play the role of an irreplaceable companion for many years increase slightly.
What dogs live the longest? Which breeds are considered long-lived and why? The answers to these questions are provided later in the article below.
See also: Puppy life calendar – stages and development
10 dog breeds that live the longest
Chihuahua
It has long been known that small pets often live longer than large dogs. In large and giant breeds, the aging process begins a little earlier.
Chihuahua, as one of the smallest dog breeds, often enjoys unprecedented health, which results in longevity. These pets are also resistant to many different genetic diseases. However, this does not apply to dogs coming from pseudo-breeding farms, where animals are often treated as objects and their reproduction takes on an inhumane form aimed only at quick profit.
Dogs coming from proven breeders that function in accordance with breed standards have an average lifespan 16-18 lat. There are also cases in which these animals live up to 20 years of age.
Jack Russell terrier
The Jack Russell terrier is a small, but extremely lively, energetic and joyful dog that has a great passion for various activities, especially if they involve playing outdoors. However, this is not surprising, because in the past the breed was bred primarily for hunting. This requires caregivers to ensure that the animal receives appropriate amounts of exercise and physical activity.
A properly cared for representative of the breed has an average lifespan from 13 to about 16 years oldHowever, guardians of a Jack Russell terrier should bear in mind the fact that the dog may be innately susceptible to certain diseases.
Jamnik
Despite the fact that dachshunds are often burdened with genetic health problems, properly cared for pets usually live from 12 to even 16 years old, which makes them long-lived. It should be noted, however, that in the case of dachshunds, there is no shortage of pseudo-breeders for whom the health and well-being of the dogs they sell play a minor role. Moreover, guardians of representatives of this breed must be aware of the relatively strong hunting instincts of these dogs, which are rooted in the breed’s blood from its very beginnings.
Yorkshire terrier
The small and delicate build of the Yorkshire Terrier often proves deceptive. This breed is characterized by a strong and energetic character, as well as great endurance. Therefore, you should not underestimate the skills of a Yorkie, even if its head is decorated with a charming bow.
These dogs enjoy relatively good health, although they may be more susceptible to certain diseases and ailments. A properly cared for Yorkshire Terrier has an average lifespan from 13 to even 16 years old.
Pomeranian
The Pomeranian, the well-known and popular Miniature Spitz, has been winning the hearts of people all over the world for a long time. Representatives of this breed are characterized by an unusual appearance, but also a pleasant disposition, which contains a note of bravery, courage and a tendency to intense vocalizations.
The Pomeranian is often referred to as a resistant and healthy dog, and these dogs live from 12 to about 16 years old. It should be noted, however, that genetic predispositions are not everything, and owners of Miniature Spitz dogs must ensure their proper diet, care and regular check-ups with a trusted veterinarian.
A bottle
Poodles are considered one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world, and their unique appearance has made them a popular choice for years. Poodles are also known for being empathetic and friendly dogs who acquire new skills at a surprisingly fast pace. However, the breed requires proper care, grooming and attention to sufficient amounts of exercise and physical activity.
The lifespan of poodles depends on their breed. The shortest lifespan is that of the large variety (approx. 12-15 years), while the longest – miniature poodles (up to 17-18 years). However, it all depends on the quality of care provided to the animal, as well as its origin and genetic predispositions.
Maltese
The Maltese is a well-known and universally loved snow-white dog with an exceptionally joyful, friendly and sociable disposition. Pets of this breed are also devoted, playful and loyal, and they form extremely strong bonds with their owners, which is why they sometimes have a hard time dealing with loneliness.
Even though Maltese dogs may have certain predispositions to certain diseases and ailments, these dogs live on average from 12 to 15 yearsespecially if they are provided with appropriate care and their owners properly take care of all health aspects.
Long-haired Scottish Shepherd
The Long-Haired Scottish Shepherd (Collie) is a breed popularized primarily thanks to Eric Knight’s novel with the memorable title “Lassie, Come Back!” Moreover, it is because of the above-mentioned novel and its subsequent film adaptation that many people now claim that the correct name for a long-haired Scottish Shepherd is Lassie. But getting to the point – the collie is a durable and resistant breed, and its representatives even live there 14-16 lat. However, long-haired Scottish Shepherds may have certain predispositions to certain diseases and ailments, which is why their owners are obliged to take care of their pet’s health and well-being.
Border Collie
The Border Collie is one of the most popular dog breeds, so it probably needs no introduction. These quadrupeds are distinguished by extraordinary intelligence, efficiency, perseverance, as well as an energetic and friendly character. The breed excels in many different tasks, including all competitions and sports competitions, where it usually stands on the podium.
The Border Collie is one of those breeds whose lifespan can vary greatly. It is generally accepted that it is on average 10-14 lat, although in practice there are often animals as young as 16 or 17 years old. It can therefore be concluded that the breed is relatively long-lived, although this issue is highly individualized.
Beagle
The Beagle is an active and highly energetic dog that has the ability to track effectively. The breed can also be described as resistant and hardy, and at the same time a bit independent. If properly cared for, a beagle will live for the most part from 12 to 15 yearshowever, there are also much older representatives of this breed.
See also: What are the most intelligent dog breeds?
